Trolling Fishing: A Beginner's Guide

Trolling is a fishing technique where a moving boat drags bait or lures to trick fish into thinking it's prey.

Where to Troll?

Trolling is versatile:

• Ocean
• Lake
• River

Finding a Good Trolling Spot

1. Locate your fish:
   • Use sonar
   • Watch for birds diving
   • Look for floating weed lines
2. Achieve the right depth:
   • Use different equipment for bait placement.

Common Catches

Depending on the water type:

• Freshwater: Salmon, Trout, Bass, Walleye
• Nearshore Saltwater: Kingfish, Wahoo, Barracuda
• Offshore Saltwater: Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Sailfish, Marlin

Essential Gear

Rods

• Freshwater/Inshore: Stiff rod
• Offshore: Specialized, heavier rods (6 ½ - 7 ½ ft)

Reels

• Conventional vs Spinning: Conventional offers more line for trolling
• Line-Counting Reels: Helps replicate presentations
• Two-Speed Reels: Useful for bigger fish

Line

• Monofilament: Good for higher speeds
• Braided: Stronger, less buoyant

Riggers

• Outriggers: Long poles for more lines
• Downriggers: Devices to lower bait deeper
• Planer Boards: Cheaper alternative to downriggers

Lures and Baits

• Types of Lures: Skirted lures, spoons, plugs, soft plastics
• Bait Options: Squid, ballyhoo, mullet, mackerel

How to Troll?

Importance of Speed

• Adjust based on the water conditions and prey imitation.

Switching It Up

• Vary speed and direction for a natural presentation.